Reflections about Creativity and Humility

I’m really not a writer, but here is the thing
If I put ideas on paper and have the right opportunities
I can build programs or teach classes and make those words sing
With enough love for others and hope in my heart
I’m willing to work long hours doing homework, listening
building alliances and thinking through issues before I even start

Student Graduation Celebration – 2009

But the magic ingredients for ideas to blossom
are people who come together to build shared dreams
What they create in solidarity is often truly awesome
then it’s time for me to celebrate their creations and quietly walk away
and take time to breathe, and time for rest, and maybe even play
knowing there’ll always be more worthy ideas to put on paper – another day

Such wisdom Carol. Happy writing in 2017! I love reading your posts and I hope to also get back to blogging on a more regular basis. I recently received a stellar review of my book transcript from the publisher. Of course I had a lot of help writing it because I am not a seasoned writer, just a very passionate antagonist…lol.

Thank you for sharing such exciting news, Joan! Congratulations on your book and kudos to you for the courage to take on so many new challenges because of your (com)passion. I appreciate your kind words and look forward to hearing more about your book. ❤

Thank you Carol. I believe that words have the power to cause action and give hope to the voiceless. I also believe this book will do just that for folks who’ve known immeasurable pain for far too long. I’ll keep you updated!

Well, maybe a storyteller, Susan. 🙂 You are a (truly gifted) writer. But writing is just not the same for me as being able to be part of the energy of a collective, creative process and then being present to witness transformations.

Thank you for your kind words, DK. Perhaps it’s just harder to judge one’s writing skills in terms of positive concrete outcomes. When creating a new program to address a social problem like infant mortality, or teaching a class of first generation college students, a synergy develops between all of the people involved. One is able to observe more immediate (and sometimes even longer-lasting) transformative outcomes.

I’m not sure that I can breathe the same kind of spontaneous inventiveness and energy into my writing that is possible in those synergistic face-to-face relational exchanges. But I haven’t given up trying, and I do so appreciate your encouraging comments.

I find it ironic that anyone would write the words, “I’m not really a writer!” I know what you meant. I’ve felt the feeling. It’s hard to overcome, but try. Own your beautiful words. Only you could have written them and infused them with your singular voice!

The most daunting thing for a writer is the blank paper or white screen, and the writer’s bravest act is to write that first line. One of the great writers (I can’t recall who) said they write so they know what they think, and I believe that. It’s not until you put that pen to paper that you uncover who you are. Oh, and you are a writer.

It’s always a delight to hear from you, Jim. Yes,it is a challenge to figure out where to begin even when stories or poetry are aching to be written. The words that emerge do tell us a lot about ourselves. I appreciate your kindness and insights. Thank you. ❤